Each person is unique. We are also greatly influenced by our cultural upbringing as well as everyday experiences. In my course on Cultural Neuropsychology at Georgetown University, we look at the differences in perception, cognition, neurology and relationships between those raised in Eastern and Western cultures (as well as people in-between, such as those in Middle-Eastern, African and Latin American countries, and our Native American population.) It stands to reason that in this diverse world, psychologists and all therapists can benefit from a better understanding of our own cultural foundations and those with whom we work.

Part I – will lay the foundation for understanding and appreciating cultural diversity.

We’ll discuss cultural differences in perception, cognition, interaction, views of the world and expectations of everyday life. For example, we’ll look at how time and space are perceived and used differently around the world, i.e. what time are you expected to arrive at a professional meeting vs. a party? How close do you stand during a casual conversation; what are the “rules” about looking at someone or about touching? Case studies from a young Ethiopian man, an Asian woman, and a student from Turkey will help us appreciate the cross-cultural importance and complexity on a daily basis. And studies of “American Cultural Patterns” help us all learn and articulate many things Americans do and expect in our life and our relationships.

Part II – will discuss mental disorders among cultures as well as therapeutic processes.

After laying the cultural foundation in Part I, we will discuss how such mental disorders as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia are manifested, assessed, and treated in different cultures throughout the world.

I will be joined by my esteemed colleague and past DCPA President Dr. Walter Hillabrant who will do a segment on the Native-American experience, and by my 3 interns: Jesus Gonzalez and Claire Hong who are at NIH and Cindy Buffart from Georgetown University.

Workshop Objectives: At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

"The District of Columbia Psychological Association is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The District of Columbia Psychological Association maintains responsibility for this program and its content."

There is no corporate support/payment for this workshop.

DCPA Event Cancellation Policy

The DC Psychological Association is unable to provide refunds for events. However, we do allow up to one year to make up a CE session that may have been missed.